Our Fathers: Celebrating milestones of two of Iona's icons
As chaplains, they provide ongoing support, wisdom, and spiritual guidance to students, staff, and families. Their decades of service, marked by dedication to education, parish ministry, and the Oblate mission, have shaped countless lives across Australia. Both Fr Lewy and Fr John were ordained in the wake of the Second Vatican Council, a period of profound renewal in the Church.
Their early ministry saw them engage in mission work, faith formation, and pastoral care, helping communities embrace the changes brought about by this new era. Each has played a significant role in building supportive communities, mentoring others, fostering vocations, and strengthening the presence of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate in schools and parishes.
Fr John, the first Queenslander to become an Oblate, has left an enduring impact on Catholic education. His leadership as Rector of Iona, Mazenod College in Western Australia, and Mazenod College in Victoria shaped the formation of thousands of students. He was instrumental in enhancing school facilities, developing leadership structures, and enlivening the Oblate Charism.
Later, as Provincial of the Australian Oblates, he guided the congregation through a period of transition, ensuring its continued growth.
His work in promoting vocations and his leadership in the Missionary Association of Mary Immaculate (MAMI) have strengthened the Oblate presence both in Australia and abroad.
Fr Lewy has dedicated much of his ministry to parish life, lay movements, and faith formation. Serving as a parish priest for nearly three decades, he guided communities across Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, and Western Australia, bringing wisdom and experience from his missionary work. His commitment to ministries such as Cursillo, Antioch, and Marriage Encounter, reflects his passion for empowering and supporting lay leadership.
Fr Lewy has been a treasured part of life at Iona since 2011, adored by the students, staff, families, and visitors whose days are invariably brightened by his peaceful presence, his kindness, and his wonderful Irish humour. As they continue to serve Iona College, Fr Lewy and Fr John remain sources of strength and inspiration.
Their deep faith, warmth, and pastoral care enrich our community daily. We are deeply grateful for their dedication and pray that they continue to be blessed in their ministry.